Flow lapping device for smoothing a surface of a workpiece

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is a flow lapping device for smoothing at least one surface of at least one workpiece, preferably an impeller, by an abrasive fluid including at least one holding device for holding the workpiece, in particular including at least one holding plate, as well as at least one encasing device arranged around the holding device and within which the fluid can flow, wherein the holding device is at least partially supported, in particular fixed, by at least one inner wall section of the encasing device.

The invention relates to a flow lapping device for smoothing a surface of a workpiece, a system for assembling a flow lapping device, an arrangement comprising at least one flow lapping device, a method for assembling a flow lapping device, a method for assembling an arrangement comprising at least one flow lapping device, and a method for smoothing at least one workpiece.

Flow lapping devices for smoothing a surface of a workpiece are known in principle. DE 103 09 456 A1, for example, describes a device for pressure flow lapping, which has at least two opposing pressure devices, wherein the workpiece to be processed is arranged between the opposing pressure devices, and a lapping means is movable past the workpiece to be processed. By means of a special device, the workpiece to be machined is positioned between the two pressure devices as well as clamped between the same. A similar solution is shown in WO 2015/053868 A1.

However, such concepts are considered to be in need of improvement with respect to an assembly or mounting of the workpiece and also with respect to safety aspects.

It is therefore object of the invention to propose a flow lapping device which can be prepared in a manner as simple as possible for comparatively safe performance of the flow lapping process for the workpiece to be smoothed. Preferably, the flow lapping process as such is to be comparatively effectively performable. Furthermore, it is object of the invention to propose a corresponding system for assembling a flow lapping device, a corresponding arrangement comprising at least one flow lapping device, a corresponding method for assembling a flow lapping device, a corresponding method for assembling an arrangement with at least one flow lapping device, as well as a corresponding method for smoothing at least one workpiece.

This object is solved in particular by the features of claim 1.

In particular, the object is solved by a flow lapping device for smoothing at least one surface (preferably at least one inner surface or at least one surface of a cavity) of at least one workpiece, preferably impeller, by means of an abrasive fluid, comprising at least one holding device (for holding the workpiece), in particular comprising at least one holding plate (resp. formed by at least one or exactly one holding plate), as well as at least one encasing device, within which the fluid can flow, arranged around the holding device (circumferentially), wherein the holding device is supported (or held), in particular fixed, at least partially by at least one (or on at least one) inner wall section of the encasing device. The encasing device is preferably arranged partially or completely (circumferentially) around an outer or (in radial direction) outermost (circumferential) edge of the holding device or holding plate.

One idea of the invention is to arrange around a correspondingly provided holding device or holding plate (for holding the workpiece) an encasing device which is used to also support or fix the holding device. By that, in a simple manner a flow lapping device for carrying out the flow lapping process can be prepared, whereby a comparatively high level of safety during flow lapping is achieved in particular by shielding the holding device or holding plate (and thus the workpiece) on the circumferential side, so that in particular it is prevented or at least (further) impeded that abraded particles (grains) and/or grinding medium escape into the environment.

The above-mentioned object is solved according to an independent (or, if applicable, also further defining) aspect, in particular by a flow lapping device for smoothing at least one surface of at least one workpiece, preferably impeller, by means of an abrasive fluid, comprising at least one holding device, in particular component platform, (for holding the workpiece), preferably comprising at least one holding plate (resp. formed by at least one or exactly one holding plate), at least one encasing device, within which the fluid can flow, arranged around the holding device (circumferentially), as well as at least one fluid guiding device (in particular fluid guiding insert) (provided separately from the encasing device), which is arranged or can be arranged within the encasing device, in particular is inserted or can be inserted, in order to divert the fluid within the filling device at least in regions. The encasing device is preferably arranged (circumferentially) around an outer or outermost (peripheral) edge of the holding device or holding plate.

Preferably, the at least one fluid guiding device (the at least one fluid guiding insert) is configured such that the fluid, when flowing towards the workpiece, is guided towards at least one opening of the workpiece. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one fluid guiding device (or optionally a further fluid guiding device) may also be configured such that the fluid, when flowing towards the workpiece, flows towards an (inner and/or outer) surface of the workpiece.

A further idea of the invention thus lies in particular in arranging the holding device (holding plate) within an encasing device, as well as simultaneously also arranging within the encasing device a (separate) fluid guiding device which, due to its guiding or redirecting of the fluid, can cause the fluid to act particularly effectively on the surfaces ultimately to be smoothed. This makes it possible to achieve an effective smoothing in a simple manner.

By an encasing device is meant in particular a device which encases (sheaths) the holding device (holding plate) and also in particular the workpiece (if it is arranged inside the flow lapping device) on the circumferential side. In particular, therefore, the holding device (holding plate) and, if applicable, also the workpiece shall be shielded to the side (laterally or circumferentially) by the encasing device (i.e., in particular when the flow lapping device is ready for operation, in directions which are at least substantially horizontal and/or in directions which are at least substantially perpendicular to a direction of movement of a first and/or second pressure device, in particular pressure cylinder, or the like). When the holding device (holding plate) extends over a total height X, the holding device (holding plate) shall preferably be encased (sheathed) over a height corresponding to at least 0.3*X, preferably at least 0.6*X, further preferably at least 0.8*X.

The encasing device may form (in a general sense) a cylinder, for example with round, in particular circular, or polygonal, in particular quadrangular or hexagonal or octagonal radial section.

By a support by at least one inner wall section of the encasing device, it is to be understood in particular that the corresponding inner wall section at least partially contributes to (optionally completely causes) the holding device (holding plate) to remain (be retained), in particular at a certain height. For that, the inner wall section may, for example, have at least one corresponding recess (e.g. groove, preferably annular groove) and/or at least one corresponding projection and/or at least one corresponding step (as an example of a holding structure). By a fixation it is to be understood, in particular, that the holding device (holding plate) is at least partially (optionally completely) held in place by the corresponding inner wall section of the encasing device. In particular, this also includes a fixation with respect to lifting (for example in the case of pressure forces from below). The holding structure of the inner wall section is preferably integrally formed or shaped in the encasing device or the inner section thereof.

The holding device is preferably formed separately (non-monolithic or non-integral) with respect to the encasing device and/or formed of a different material than the encasing device.

At least one outer edge (an outer edge lap) of the holding device or holding plate preferably lies directly against the supporting or fixing inner wall section of the encasing device.

The fluid guiding device (in particular fluid diverting device or fluid directing device) preferably comprises a fluid guiding insert or is formed by such an insert. By a fluid guiding insert is meant, in particular, an insert which is or can be inserted as a separate component in the encasing device. The fluid guiding device (or the fluid guiding insert) preferably does not constitute a seal to the outside (such as, in particular, the encasing device, which preferably provides such a seal). In particular, the fluid guiding device (or fluid guiding insert) shall not define an outer wall which delimits a volume, in which the abrasive fluid is located or can flow, to the outside. The (respective) fluid guiding device may possibly be a one-piece, in particular monolithic body. The (respective) fluid guiding device (fluid guide insert) may be formed at least in sections, optionally completely, from plastic and/or metal and/or ceramic.

The workpiece is preferably an impeller and/or has: an at least substantially round cross-section and/or a cylindrical outer surface and/or at least one, optionally exactly one, central opening, in particular on a bottom, and/or at least one radially aligned opening (preferably at least two or at least four radially aligned openings), in particular on/at a cylindrical outer surface.

Alternatively or additionally, the workpiece is not a wire guide member or at least not a printing wire guide member (Druckdrahtführungselement). Alternatively or additionally, the workpiece is not a wing or at least not an airfoil (Tragflügel). Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of workpieces (in the flow lapping device) do not form a wing cluster or at least not an airfoil cluster (Tragflügel-Gruppe). In embodiments, the flow lapping device is not configured to receive as a workpiece a wire guide member and/or a printing wire guide member (Druckdrahtführungselement) and/or to receive a wing and/or airfoil (Tragflügel) and/or to receive a wing cluster and/or an airfoil cluster (Tragflügel-Gruppe).

Preferably, the encasing device comprises at least a first (preferably one-piece, in particular monolithic), in particular lower, and a second (preferably one-piece, in particular monolithic), in particular upper, encasing part. The (two or) several encasing parts can be aligned with each other at least on an outer and/or inner side, in particular such that no step is formed between the respective encasing parts (in particular in the sense that no step is formed which is only formed by an offset between the respective outer sides or inner sides; in particular, this does not exclude that the respective encasing part has a step in itself close to the respective adjacent encasing part, which is even preferred). The encasing parts may have (at least approximately) the same height or a different height. If the encasing parts have a different height, the height of the (respective) smaller encasing part may have at least 20%, optionally at least 50% or at least 80% of the height of the (respective) larger encasing part. Insofar as a “height” is referred to here (or further above and also further below), it is to be understood in particular as a vertical extension of the respective entity referred to. However, this can also be understood to mean a dimension in a direction which is specified by two correspondingly provided pressure devices for pressurizing the fluid (in particular pressure pistons).

A height of the encasing device can be at least 0.5 times, preferably at least 1.1 times, optionally at least 1.4 times as large as a width, wherein the width preferably is a maximum extension perpendicular to a height direction.

A height of the first and/or second encasing part may be at least 0.2 times, preferably at least 0.5 times, optionally at least 0.7 times as large as a (respective) width, wherein the width preferably is a maximum extension perpendicular to a height direction.

Preferably, the encasing device (preferably at least one or more or all of the encasing parts, in each case individually or in combination) is designed to envelop (sheathe), in particular completely, at least one height section containing the (possibly complete) holding device (holding plate) and/or the (possibly complete) workpiece.

The second (or further) encasing part is preferably an encasing part which is structurally delimited from the first encasing part, in particular is removable therefrom (non-destructively, preferably by hand) and/or can is connectable thereto manually (directly or indirectly). By that the assembly or montage of the flow lapping device for carrying out a flow lapping process and/or its disassembly can be simplified.

The holding device can be inserted into the encasing device (in particular between first and second encasing part). Alternatively or additionally, the holding device can be clamped in the encasing device (in particular between first and second encasing part). By that an arrangement (assembly) of the holding device (holding plate) within the encasing device can be carried out in a simple manner, or a reliable seal can be provided.

The encasing device and/or the first and/or the second encasing part can form an annular jacket, preferably circular or polygonal in cross-section, in particular quadrangular, preferably a hollow cylinder. By that a shielding can be ensured in an effective and simple manner.

In one embodiment, the at least one holding device (holding plate) is arranged, preferably at the level of a transition between first and second encasing part. By that, the two encasing parts can be utilized in a simple manner to support, in particular to fix, the holding device (holding plate).

On an inner wall of the encasing device, preferably at least on an inner wall of the first encasing part, at least one projection and/or at least one step can be formed, on which preferably the holding device is placed.

An annular, in particular annular-groove-shaped, receiving space may be formed on the inner wall of the encasing device, wherein a circumferential edge of the holding device is received in the receiving space.

A step may optionally be realized by an offset of an inner wall (radially) inwardly, wherein this offset optionally does not recede again (as in the case of a projection). In particular, therefore, a step is to be understood as an alternative to a projection. In any case, such measures allow a corresponding holding device (holding plate) and thus also the workpiece to be mounted in a simple manner (without tools) for performing the flow lapping.

Preferably, mutually facing ends of the first and the second encasing part (jointly) form, preferably annular, in particular annular-groove-shaped, a receiving space for receiving a circumferential edge of the holding device (holding plate). Further preferably, for this purpose at least one of the mutually adjacent ends, preferably both mutually adjacent ends, has a step and/or an (inwardly directed) projection. By an annular groove-shaped receiving space is meant in particular a receiving space which is (at least substantially) U-shaped or V-shaped in cross-section and/or in particular has no open bottom. By such a measure, the flow lapping device can be prepared for the flow lapping process in a simple manner.

Ends of the first and second encasing parts facing one another can abut against one another or be spaced apart from one another, possibly sealed off, and in particular form a gap (annular gap). In the presence of a gap, the holding device or holding plate itself—in cooperation with the respective encasing part—can seal in a simple manner. If a gap (annular gap) is formed, preferably no section of the holding device (holding plate) should be arranged in it. The gap and/or minimum distance between the encasing parts is preferably smaller than 10 mm, further preferably smaller than 5 mm, possibly smaller than 3 mm and/or smaller than a height of a (each) respective step of the previous set-off and/or at least smaller than the sum of the heights of the two steps of the previous set-off and/or smaller than a height of the above annular groove.

Preferably, the adjacent ends of the first and second encasing parts do not contact each other. For (additional) sealing, a sealing structure (or sealing element), in particular comprising a sealing groove with sealing ring, may be arranged at at least one of the ends.

In preferred embodiments, the holding device or holding plate (if applicable, exclusively the holding device or holding plate) seals the two encasing parts from each other

A connection between the holding device (holding plate) and the encasing device may optionally be formed without (separate) connecting devices or at least without screws and/or without bolts and/or without (separate) clamping devices. Alternatively or additionally, the same applies to a connection between the first and second encasing parts among each other and/or to a connection between holding device (holding plate) and first encasing part and/or a connection between holding device (holding plate) and second encasing part.

At a first (in particular lower) end of the encasing device a first closing device may be arranged. The first closing device preferably comprises a first pressure device, which preferably comprises a first (closing and/or pressure) cylinder and/or a first pressure piston (displaceable in the first closing device, in particular the first cylinder). Alternatively or additionally, a second closing device may be arranged at a second (in particular upper) end of the encasing device. The second closing device preferably comprises a second pressure device, which preferably comprises a second (closing and/or pressure) cylinder and/or a second pressure piston (displaceable in the second closing device, in particular the second cylinder).

Preferably, the flow lapping device comprises at least one, preferably separate, fluid guiding device (in particular the above fluid guiding device) arranged in particular within the encasing device, preferably in order to guide the fluid in a targeted manner past the workpiece and/or through the workpiece.

Preferably, the flow lapping device comprises a first fluid guiding device, which is arranged on a first side, preferably below the holding device (holding plate) and/or is arranged inside the first encasing part, wherein at least an inner cross-section of the first fluid guiding device preferably changes in the direction of the holding device, in particular becomes larger; and/or a second fluid guiding device, which is arranged on a second side, preferably above the holding device, and/or is arranged within the second encasing part, wherein at least one inner cross-section of the second fluid guiding device preferably changes in the direction of the holding device, in particular first becoming larger and then becoming smaller; and or a third fluid guiding device, which is arranged on a (the) second side, preferably above the holding device, and/or is arranged within the second encasing part, wherein at least an outer cross-section of the third fluid guiding device preferably changes in the direction of the holding device, in particular becomes larger, wherein the third fluid guiding device is preferably formed compactly (without openings) and/or is arranged inside the second fluid guiding device.

In a further embodiment, at least one spacer (preferably as a component of a, in particular the third, fluid guiding device) is provided to (further) space the workpiece from a cover and/or a base, wherein a spacer extension (separate, preferably removable from the spacer in a non-destructive manner, optionally by hand or by means of a tool) is preferably provided to enable a larger and/or variable spacing (optionally without changing the third fluid guiding device). The spacer extension is preferably provided as a separate component from the (actual) spacer and can in particular be placed and/or plugged onto the latter. The spacer and/or the spacer extension can (each) have at least one or at least second, possibly at least four, bars (or rods) in order to enable a safe spacing. By such a spacer and/or such a spacer extension, a simple and precise assembly (without tools) of the flow lapping device can be performed. Due to the (respective) length of the spacer, in particular the rods, a variable overall spacing can be achieved without having to change, for example, the third fluid guiding device.

According to an embodiment, the holding device has at least one opening which preferably can be brought or is brought into alignment with at least one opening of at least one workpiece. By that the (abrasive) fluid can effectively be used for the smoothing process.

Preferably, the flow lapping device comprises at least one fastening device for fastening at least one workpiece of a holding device, preferably a plurality of fastening devices, in particular in order to be able to fasten a plurality of workpieces to the holding device. Such a fastening device may, for example, comprise or enable a positive-locking and/or frictional fastening (connection), in particular enable fastening by plugging and/or clamping and/or screwing.

According to the embodiment, the flow lapping device can formed in multi-stage manner, preferably such that at least two holding devices (holding plates) are formed, preferably one above the other and/or one behind the other in the direction of fluid flow, wherein at least one workpiece can be (or is) arranged on each holding device and/or such that at least a third encasing part is provided, which is preferably arranged between the first and second encasing part or above the second encasing part. Thus, a plurality of workpieces can be smoothed in a simple and safe manner.

The flow lapping device is preferably configured not for forming the workpiece, in particular exclusively for smoothing the workpiece.

The above-mentioned object is in particular further solved by a system for assembling a flow lapping device for smoothing at least one surface of at least one workpiece (of the above type), wherein the system comprises a holding device, in particular comprising at least one holding plate, for holding the workpiece, as well as at least one encasing device within which the fluid is flowable (or flows around), wherein the encasing device is arrangeable (or arranged) around the holding device such that the holding device is at least partially supported, in particular fixed, by at least one inner wall section of the encasing device. With regard to the advantages of the system, reference is made to the above statements concerning the flow lapping device.

Preferably, the system comprises at least two different, further preferably at least two different first and/or second and/or third fluid guiding devices, which in particular are arrangeable at the same location and/or preferably differ by an outer geometry and/or an inner geometry, optionally only by an outer geometry or only by an inner geometry and/or a height and/or a diameter, in particular inner diameter and/or outer diameter, and/or a shape, in particular an outer and/or an inner shape, and/or a material.

By means of such a system (or set), an adaptation of the flow lapping device to different uses, in particular different surfaces or workpieces to be smoothed, can be made in a simple way. Thus, the variability of the flow lapping device can be increased.

The above-mentioned object is further solved in particular by an arrangement comprising at least one flow lapping device of the above type, as well as at least one workpiece, wherein preferably applies: at least one workpiece is (directly) adjacent to the holding device and preferably lies (directly) on the holding device; and/or at least one opening of the workpiece is at least in sections in alignment with at least one opening of the holding device and/or with at least one opening of at least one fluid guiding device; and/or at least one fluid guiding device is (directly) adjacent to the workpiece; and/or at least one fluid guiding device lies (directly) on the workpiece; and/or at least one fluid guiding device is arranged at least in sections around the workpiece.

The above-mentioned object is further solved in particular by a method for assembling a flow lapping device of the above type, wherein the method preferably comprises the following steps: a) arranging at least a part of one of the encasing devices, in particular the first encasing part, on a first closing device; b) arranging the holding device in the encasing device, in particular by arranging the holding device first at (on) the first encasing part and then arranging a second encasing part of the encasing device at (on) the holding device and/or at (on) the first encasing part; and c) arranging a second closing device at (on) the encasing device, in particular at (on) the second encasing part. Steps a), b) and c) may be performed in the order according to the alphabet or in a different one (for example c)—b)—a)).

The assembly of a flow lapping device is preferably carried out without tools, in particular (only) by plugging the elements on and into each other. In terms of device, the flow lapping device is preferably configured accordingly. By that it can be achieved to set up the flow lapping device for carrying out the flow lapping process in a simple manner.

Preferably, the holding device is arranged (directly) on at least one first fluid guiding device, in particular is laid on, and/or at least one second fluid guiding device is arranged (directly) on the holding device, in particular is laid on.

According to an embodiment, the holding device can be or is fixed between the first encasing part and the second encasing part, in particular by pressurizing the first and/or second encasing part (preferably pressing the first and second encasing parts against each other).

The above object is further solved in particular by an assembling of the above arrangement, comprising the method for assembling a flow lapping device, wherein before or after step b) at least one workpiece is arranged at (on) the holding device, wherein the workpiece is preferably (in the operating state) not pressurized and/or only comes into contact with the holding device and/or optionally fastening device(s).

Preferably, at least one third fluid guiding device is arranged (directly) on the workpiece, in particular is laid on.

The above-mentioned object is further solved in particular by a method for smoothing at least one workpiece, comprising the steps: Providing the above arrangement (comprising at least one flow lapping device); and flowing through, in particular bi-directionally flowing through, of the arrangement such that at least one surface of the workpiece, in particular at least one inner surface, preferably of an impeller, is smoothed. During the process, preferably no, at least no substantial, shaping (or no, at least no substantial, forming) of the workpiece takes place, in particular exclusively a smoothing of the workpiece.

The (respective, in particular the respective first and/or second) fluid guiding device preferably comprises at least one opening (possibly bore).

The (respective) fluid guiding device is preferably formed from plastic and/or by means of an additive manufacturing process. The plastic may preferably comprise polyolefin, in particular polyethylene and/or polypropylene, and/or at least one polyamide, in particular PA 6. Particularly in the case of polyamide (such as PA 6), a fluid guiding device can be provided in a comparatively simple manner which is sufficiently resistant to wear (due to it abrasive fluid).

Preferably, the holding device and/or the workpiece is not in (direct) contact with a closing device (in particular an upper cover part or a lower bottom part of the flow lapping device).

Preferably, the workpiece is only connected to or in contact with the holding device. In this respect, the encasing device (or the respective encasing part) also allows that the workpiece is not to be directly subjected to the pressure of a closing device.

In general, by the invention a processing of complex external and/or internal geometries at comparatively low cost can be made possible. If necessary, small batch and series processing (especially in two-way mode) can be made possible. Component damage (for example by a closing mechanism of the flow lapping device) and/or pressurization (of, for example, more than 50 bar or more than 100 bar) can be prevented (at least with a higher probability).

In addition to a cyclic (one-sided) processing, two-way processing in particular is also possible. In general, a safety, in particular working safety at the flow lapping device is improved.

Due to the possibility of using a back pressure, more areas of surfaces, in particular channel surfaces, can be reached.

In particular, a closed system is provided in which the fluid envelops the workpiece and, possibly, is forced through the workpiece only through defined openings.

By changing of (specific) holding devices (holding plates or component platforms), a processing of different workpieces (components) in the flow lapping device can be made possible.

Optionally, different clamping systems (possibly simultaneously or together) can be used as clamping device for fixing the workpiece (component) on the holding device (component platform).

According to the invention, therefore, is also a set comprising the components of the above flow lapping device and various holding devices (holding plates or component platforms) which differ from one another, in particular by a size and/or shape and/or fastening devices for fastening the respective workpiece.

Further embodiments will be apparent from the dependent claims.

In the following, the invention is described by means of embodiment examples, which are explained in more detail with reference to the figures.

Hereby Show:

FIG. 1 a schematic sectional view of a flow lapping device according to the invention;

FIG. 2 the flow lapping device according to FIG. 1 with fluid guiding devices;

FIG. 3 an alternative embodiment of a flow lapping device according to the invention;

FIG. 4 a schematic sectional view of a further embodiment of a flow lapping device according to the invention;

FIG. 5 a schematic sectional view of a section of a flow lapping device according to the invention;

FIG. 6 an oblique view of components of a flow lapping device according to the invention;

FIGS. 7 a-7 e various portions of a method for preparing a flow lapping device according to the invention;

FIG. 8 an oblique sectional view of the flow lapping device according to FIG. 6 ;

FIG. 9 a spacer according to the invention for the flow lapping device; and

FIG. 10 a spacer extension according to the invention for the flow lapping device.

In the following description, the same reference numerals are used for parts that are the same and have the same effect.

FIG. 1 shows a flow lapping device according to the invention in a schematic sectional view. The flow lapping device comprises a holding device 10 (in the form of a holding plate or component platform). On the holding device 10 a workpiece 11 (e.g. in the form of an impeller) is arranged.

Furthermore, the holding device 10 is fixed to an encasing device 12. The encasing device 12 comprises a first encasing part 13 and a second encasing part 14 in the form of (e.g. circular in cross-section) hollow cylinders.

First and second encasing parts 13, 14 may abut or contact each other or be (at least slightly) spaced from each other (e.g., by a, possibly sealed gap).

The first encasing part 13 has a step 15 on (in) which an edge or a (circumferential) edge lap 16 of the holding device 10 is arranged (laid on).

The second encasing part 14 has a complementary step 17 which, together with the first step 15, forms an annular groove-shaped receiver 18. Through this annular groove-shaped receiver 18, the holding device 10 is fixed within the encasing device 12, specifically by an inner wall section 19 thereof.

The holding device 10 has (at least) one opening 20, such that abrasive fluid 26 can penetrate through this opening 20 into a (corresponding) opening 21 of the workpiece 11 to smooth an inner (cavity) surface of the workpiece 11.

The fluid 26 can be pressurized by a first (lower) pressure piston 23 as well as a second (upper) pressure piston 24, so that the fluid can flow either from top to bottom or from bottom to top (as indicated by the arrows 25). The first pressure piston 23 is disposed in or on a first (lower) closing device 27, and the second pressure piston 24 is disposed in or on a second (upper) closing device 28.

The second (upper) closing device 28 thereby does not support itself on the workpiece 11, but on the encasing device 12 or its second encasing part 14. By that it can effectively be prevented that impairments are caused to the workpiece 11 by a closing pressure.

In addition to the opening 21, the workpiece 11 has further openings 31, 32 (which are preferably oriented in the lateral direction).

FIG. 2 shows basically the flow lapping device according to FIG. 1 , but with additional fluid guiding inserts. Specifically, a first fluid guiding insert 33 is located below the holding device 10 and a second fluid guiding insert 34 and a third fluid guiding insert 35 are located above the holding device 10.

The first fluid guiding insert 33 has a fluid guide that tapers (continuously) in the direction of the holding device 10 or its opening 20. A corresponding cavity formed by the first fluid guiding insert 33 is preferably conical or frustoconical in shape.

Above the holding device 10 and also above the workpiece 11 is the third fluid guiding device 35, which is formed without an internal cavity and tapers starting from the workpiece 11. An outer surface of the second fluid guiding insert 35 is preferably formed in a conical or frustoconical shape.

The second fluid guiding insert 34 in turn has a cavity, the cross-section of which first widens and then tapers again starting from the holding device 10. The (continuous) widening adjoins (directly) the openings 31, 32 of the workpiece 11. Overall, an effective passage or diversion of the fluid can thus be achieved in an effective manner with the present geometry of the workpiece 11 (in particular an impeller).

FIG. 3 shows an alternative embodiment which basically corresponds to the embodiment according to FIG. 1 . However, in the embodiment according to FIG. 3 , several openings 20 are provided in the holding device and several workpieces 11 (corresponding to the number of openings) are arranged. The number of openings and/or workpieces may be at least two or at least three or at least five (for example, seven, as shown in FIG. 3 ).

FIG. 4 shows a further embodiment of the flow lapping device according to the invention, which corresponds at least in part to the embodiment according to FIG. 3 . In addition to the embodiment according to FIG. 3 , the embodiment according to FIG. 4 comprises a two-stage configuration with two holding devices 10 (each of which may be configured like the holding device 10 in FIG. 3 ). A plurality of workpieces 11 are disposed on each of the holding devices 10. In addition to the two encasing parts 13, 14, a third encasing part 36 is provided in the embodiment according to FIG. 4 . This third encasing part 36 comprises a step 17 a analogous to the step 17 of the second encasing part. The second encasing part 14 in FIG. 4 comprises a step 15 a analogous to the step 15 of the second encasing part.

In FIG. 5 , various solutions for a fastening of the respective workpiece to the holding device 10 are illustrated. For the sake of clarity, these are all shown in one figure, namely FIG. 5 , but can also be employed independently from one another.

For fastening a workpiece 11, according to FIG. 5 , in particular a clamping unit 37 (in particular clamping adapter) can be used and/or a clamping device 38 (in particular clamping claw), and/or a tube or connecting piece 39 (in particular threaded tube) and/or a screw device 40.

FIG. 6 shows a further embodiment of a flow lapping device according to the invention in an assembled state. With reference to FIGS. 7 a to 7 e , individual steps of a method for preparing the flow lapping device for a flow lapping process are explained (whereby not every individual step is also explained with reference to an individual figure, but in some cases steps are also combined in one figure).

First, according to FIG. 7 a , a base device 46 (base plate) is provided, on which the first encasing part 13 is then arranged. Thereafter, the first fluid guiding device 33 is arranged within the encasing part 13.

Thereupon (see FIG. 7 b ), the holding device 10 (holding plate) is placed on the first fluid guiding device 33 or, in particular, on the step 15 of the first encasing part 13. Subsequently, the second encasing part 14 is placed on the first encasing part 13 as well as the holding device 10, and then the second fluid guiding device 34 is placed on the holding device 10.

In a next step (see FIG. 7 c ), the workpiece 11 is placed in or put on the second fluid guiding device 34 or the holding device 10. Alternatively, the workpiece 11 can also be connected to the holding device 10 beforehand.

In FIG. 7 d , the third fluid guiding device 35 is shown, which is placed on the workpiece 11 and simultaneously has a spacing function. Above the second 34 and third 35 fluid guiding device, in turn, an upper cover device 42 (see FIG. 7 e ) is arranged. The resulting structure is shown again in an oblique sectional view in FIG. 8 .

The configuration according to FIG. 7 e and FIG. 8 , respectively, can then form the flow lapping device (possibly with further parts, such as not-shown pressure pistons and the like) and is prepared to perform a flow lapping process.

In FIG. 9 , the third fluid guiding device 35 is shown in an oblique view. In particular, a plurality of rods 43 are shown here that provide the spacing function. In general, there may be at least one or at least two or at least 4 and/or at most 20 or at most 10 rods 43.

In FIG. 10 , a spacer extension 44 is shown which can be placed on the spacer or the second fluid guiding device 34 on FIG. 9 . For that, the spacer extension 44 also has rods 45 which can be brought into plug-in connection with corresponding plug-in devices 48 via a respective plug-in device 47. The plug-in devices 47 can be projections (as shown in FIG. 10 ) or corresponding recesses (as not shown in FIG. 10 ). The plug-in devices 48 can form recesses (as shown in FIG. 9 ) or reverse projections (in particular analogous to the projections shown in FIG. 10 ).

At this point, it should be pointed out that all of the above-described parts, taken alone and in any combination, in particular the details shown in the drawings, are claimed as embodiments of the invention. Modifications thereof are familiar to the person skilled in the art.

LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

-   10 holding device -   11 workpiece -   12 encasing device -   13 first encasing part -   14 second encasing part -   15, 15 a step -   16 edge -   17, 17 a step -   18 receiver/receiving space -   19 inner wall section -   20 opening -   21 opening -   23 first pressure piston -   24 second pressure piston -   25 line -   26 fluid -   27 first closing device -   28 second closing device -   31 opening -   32 opening -   33 first fluid guiding insert -   34 second fluid guiding insert -   35 third fluid guiding insert -   36 third encasing part -   37 clamping unit -   38 clamping device -   39 tube or connecting piece -   40 screw device -   42 cover device -   43 rod -   44 spacer extension -   45 rod -   46 base device (base plate) -   47 plug-in device -   48 plug-in device 

1. Flow lapping device for smoothing at least one surface of at least one workpiece, by an abrasive fluid, comprising: at least one holding device for holding the workpiece and having at least one holding plate and at least one encasing device arranged around the holding device and within which the fluid can flow, wherein the holding device is at least partially supported by at least one inner wall section of the encasing device, wherein the encasing device comprises at least a first and a second encasing part.
 2. Flow lapping device, in particular according to claim 1, further comprising at least one fluid guiding device which is arranged within the encasing device in order to divert the fluid within the encasing device at least in regions.
 3. (canceled)
 4. Flow lapping device according to claim 1, wherein the holding device is inserted into the encasing device and/or is clamped in the encasing device.
 5. Flow lapping device according to claim 1, wherein the encasing device and/or the first and/or the second encasing part, form(s) an annular jacket.
 6. Flow lapping device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one holding device is arranged at the level of a transition between the first and second encasing part.
 7. Flow lapping device according to claim 1, wherein on an inner wall of the encasing device at least one projection and/or at least one step is formed, on which the holding device is placed, and/or on one/the inner wall of the encasing device an annular receiving space is formed, wherein in the receiving space a circumferential edge of the holding device is received.
 8. Flow lapping device according to claim 1, wherein mutually adjacent ends of the first and of the second encasing part form a groove-shaped receiving space for receiving a circumferential edge of the holding device, wherein for that at least one of the mutually adjacent ends, both mutually adjacent ends have a step or a projection.
 9. Flow lapping device according to claim 1, wherein mutually adjacent ends of the first and of the second encasing part abut one another or form a gap.
 10. Flow lapping device according to claim 1, wherein a first closing device is arranged at a first end of the encasing device, wherein the first closing device comprises a first cylinder and/or a first pressure piston and/or a second closing device is arranged at a second end of the encasing device wherein the second closing device comprises a second cylinder and/or a second pressure piston.
 11. Flow lapping device according to claim 1, comprising at least one fluid guiding device arranged within the encasing device to guide the fluid in a targeted manner past the workpiece and/or through the workpiece.
 12. Flow lapping device according to claim 1, further comprising: a first fluid guiding device which is arranged on a first side and/or is arranged inside the first encasing part, wherein at least one inner cross section of the first fluid guiding device changes in the direction of the holding device, and/or a second fluid guiding device, which is arranged on a second side and/or is arranged inside the second encasing part, wherein at least one inner cross section of the second fluid guiding device changes in the direction of the holding device, and/or comprising a third fluid guiding device, which is arranged on one/the second side and/or is arranged inside the second encasing part, wherein at least one outer cross section of the third fluid guiding device changes in the direction of the holding device, wherein the third fluid guiding device is formed compactly and/or is arranged inside the second fluid guiding device.
 13. Flow lapping device according to claim 1, comprising at least one spacer in order to space the workpiece from a cover part and/or a base part, wherein a spacer extension is provided in order to allow a greater spacing.
 14. Flow lapping device according to claim 1, wherein the holding device has at least one opening, which can be brought in alignment with at least one opening of at least one workpiece.
 15. Flow lapping device according to claim 1, comprising at least one fastening means for fastening at least one workpiece to the holding device.
 16. Flow lapping device according to claim 1, wherein the flow lapping device can be formed in multi-stage manner such that at least two holding devices are formed, wherein at least one workpiece can be arranged on each holding device and/or such that at least a third encasing part is provided.
 17. System for assembling a flow lapping device for smoothing at least one surface according to claim 1, wherein the system comprises the holding device comprising the at least one holding plate for holding the workpiece, as well as the at least one encasing device, within which the fluid can flow.
 18. System according to claim 17 for assembling a flow lapping device, wherein the system comprises at least two different first and/or two different second and/or two different third fluid guiding devices, which can be arranged at the same location and/or differ by: an outer geometry and/or an inner geometry; and/or a height; and/or a diameter; and/or a shape; and/or a material.
 19. Arrangement, comprising at least one flow lapping device according to claim 1, as well as at least one workpiece, comprising: the at least one workpiece is adjacent to the holding device and lies on the holding device; and/or at least one opening of the workpiece is at least in sections in alignment with at least one opening of the holding device and/or with at least one opening of at least one fluid guiding device; and/or the at least one fluid guiding device is adjacent to the workpiece; and/or the at least one fluid guiding device lies on the workpiece; and/or the at least one fluid guiding device is arranged around the workpiece at least in sections.
 20. Method for assembling a flow lapping device according to claim 1, wherein the method comprises the following steps: a) arranging at least a part of the encasing device on a first closing device; b) arranging the holding device in the encasing device; c) arranging a second closing device on the encasing device.
 21. Method according to claim 20, wherein the holding device is arranged on at least one first fluid guiding device and/or at least one second fluid guiding device is arranged on the holding device.
 22. Method according to claim 20, wherein the holding device is fixed between the first encasing part and the second encasing part by pressurizing the first and/or second encasing part.
 23. Method for assembling an arrangement according to claim 19, wherein before or after step b) at least one workpiece is arranged on the holding device, wherein the workpiece is not pressurized and/or only comes into contact with the holding device and/or fastening device.
 24. Method according to claim 23, wherein at least one third fluid guiding device is arranged on the workpiece.
 25. Method for smoothing at least one workpiece, comprising the steps: providing an arrangement according to claim 19; flowing through the arrangement such that at least one surface of the workpiece is smoothed. 